Mental health team encourages residents to seek medical assistance at Halfway House Clinic
The clinic provides clients with counselling, therapy, and medication for free.
Mental and physical health are equally important components of overall health.
According to the World Health Organisation, mental health disorders are characterised by clinically significant disruptions in cognition, emotion regulation, or behaviour. It is usually associated with distress or impairment in important areas of functioning.
There are many different types of mental disorders. Mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and job stress are common, affecting individuals, their families and co-workers, and the broader community.
The South African Government website states that very few South Africans seek treatment for their mental disorders and that mental illness can be treated at the nearest clinic, hospital, or healthcare provider.
The month of October has been declared Mental Health Awareness Month with the objective of not only educating the public about mental health but also reducing the stigma and discrimination that people with mental illness are often subjected to.
To mark Mental Health Awareness Day on October 19, the Halfway House Clinic mental health team partnered with Joburg Region A’s Health Department, Department of Social Development, South African Social Security Agency, Bophelo-Phedisano Families of South Africa, CSC Midrand, National Credit Regulator, and South African Depression and Anxiety Group.
The day was intended to raise awareness of mental illness and to encourage people to seek medical help if they feel ‘overwhelmed or helpless’.
Mahlatse Mahloele, an occupational therapist with the clinic’s mental health team, said these events save the lives of those who are hiding their mental illnesses and battling suicidal thoughts.
“There is no sure way to prevent mental illness. Mental illness sufferers can, however, keep their symptoms under control by controlling stress, increasing resilience, and boosting low self-esteem,” Mahloele advised.
The clinic’s mental health team is composed of a psychiatrist, psychologist, counsellor, occupational therapist, and three mental health nurses. The team provides clients with counselling, therapy, and medication for free.
The secretary of the clinic’s community health committee, Moipone Maringa said society stigmatises mental illness largely due to a lack of knowledge or fear. She said the initiative of mental health awareness is also intended to improve the understanding of mental illness among patients and staff.
Speakers from other available stakeholders also shared their stories on how the clinic and their organisations are helping the community fight mental illness.
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